I don't think it is as much the caliber that will effect recoil and how hard it is on the hand. It is the gun. The .380 is weaker than the 9mm for sure but a Ruger LCP or Kel-Tec P3AT will kick a hell of a lot less than a 9mm 1911 or even an XD, M&P or FXX in 9mm. There are some exceptions but the pretty common rule is bigger, heavier guns kick less than smnaller lighter guns.

Ya'll notice we been getting some very gun savy folk in here these past weeks?
Refreshing to say the least

Ya'll notice we been getting some very gun savy folk in here these past weeks?
Refreshing to say the least

Agree, definetly a different perspective. Because both my walther ppk 380 and my Ruger LCP have a big difference in felt recoil than any of my 9mm's. The 9mm's are so much softer than any of the 380's by far.

__________________EVERYBODY should be a supporting member of this board. Nobody can be that damn cheap.......

Unfortunately the injury will not heal as it involves nerve damage. What 9mm 1911 would you suggest?

Sorry to hear that.
Depends on budjit i guess-
I have a RIA 9mm Tactical that i dearly love & trust so i'd recommend it to anyone More exspensive ones of course are availible but i've quit looking.
EZ to personalize too

Generally the heavier guns will absorb quite a bit of the felt recoil. But if your nerve damage also makes holding heavy weight a problem, then life is more complicated. Either way, try to find a few ranges with rental counters and try out a bunch of different guns. Remember that after market, squishy grips may also help reduce the impact on your hand. So look for guns that have such grips available.